BEAVER TWP. Trustees adopt zoning resolution

The new laws balance farmland preservation with more development.
NORTH LIMA -- Beaver Township trustees have adopted a revised zoning resolution and zoning map.
During a public hearing Monday, trustees agreed with most of the changes to the zoning resolution that were recommended by the township zoning commission earlier this year.
But, in response to concerns expressed by several residents, trustees revised the minimum lot frontage requirement of the new agricultural district.
Frontage
The proposed zoning resolution required a minimum lot frontage of 300 feet. However, at the hearing, the trustees changed it to 250 feet.
Township officials said otherwise, most of the zoning requirements have not changed.
"The zoning resolution has been reorganized, overhauled," said George Smerigan, township planning consultant.
"What has happened is that over the years, because amendments have been made to the existing resolution, items have been scattered throughout. But now the resolution has been made more user-friendly, easier to find what you need, more efficient and effective, more organized."
Smerigan explained the revised zoning resolution establishes new zoning districts based on the goals and recommendations of the 2003 Beaver Township Comprehensive Plan.
He said the comprehensive plan established a balance between preserving farmlands and natural resources while developing a strong tax base for the future.
The zoning commission began updating and revising the zoning resolution and zoning map in January, including standards that conform to Ohio case law, for the Board of Zoning Appeals to use when determining whether to grant an area variance or use variance.